BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP
St. Justin’s has a support group for handling grief and sorrow.
Click here for the New Beginnings Brochure
Click here for the Healing in Time Brochure
Click here for details on the Bereavement Support Group Meeting - September 13, 2010
Who is eligible?
Anyone who has experienced a loss through the death of a friend, spouse, or relative would benefit from this program. It is inter-denominational. Parishioners are invited to extend the invitation to this bereavement program to friends or neighbors in the community; anyone who might benefit from the program.
What is a support group?
Support groups are very valuable. Research indicates that a good support group is as effective as therapy sessions and professional counseling, in dealing with grief and sorrow. They are safe places where hurting people can think out loud as well as express sorrow. They are good and safe forums to allow one to experiment a bit in this area.
Do members of the support group have a role?
The members of support groups can be good sympathetic and empathetic listeners and fellow travelers because they have all had the experience of loss. There is a great deal of wisdom (especially practical wisdom) in the group which can be shared. Because different people in the group are at different places on the healing journey, the group becomes a strong source of hope for the members.
Who leads the group?
Each session is led by two facilitators from a St. Justin’s Bereavement Support Group Team. This team has been professionally trained to lead and respond to group members as needed. The team is also challenged to continue to further their education in the bereavement support field. The Support Group is also active in the community hosting guest speakers on the topic of bereavement which would be of interest to the entire community. If you are interested in becoming part of the presenting team, please call the office.
How do the evenings unfold?
The support group meets on Mondays from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. for eight weeks with topics presented under the guidance of a facilitator. Contact the parish office and one of our facilitators will get in touch with you.